In the first half of 2023, Germany witnessed a 3.1% increase in its installed offshore wind capacity, reaching 8,385 megawatts (MW), according to industry lobbies on Tuesday. As part of its transition to renewable energy, Germany aims to generate at least 80% of its electricity output from green sources like solar and wind by 2030, up from the current 50%, to lower carbon emissions.
Industry organizations including BWE, BWO, German Offshore Wind Energy Foundation, VDMA Power Systems, WAB, and WindEnergy Network expressed optimism, stating that after a period of sluggish growth, the industry is now prepared to undertake numerous projects.
See also: Germany's Renewable Energy Consumption Reaches 52.3% in the First Half of 2023
However, concerns arose among the industry groups following a recent 7,000 MW tender won by two oil majors. While the companies committed a record 12.6 billion euros ($13.91 billion) to develop offshore sites, the tender's design raised worries about the potential lack of revenues for equipment manufacturers.
To address these concerns and maintain the momentum towards achieving the 30,000 MW target by 2030, the industry lobbies have called for urgent amendments to the German Offshore Wind Law (WindSeeG). The main demand is an adjustment of what they consider to be loose qualitative criteria in the tenders, to enhance the likelihood of capacity actually being built.
The offshore wind sector has faced challenges in the past, including rushed development, supply chain issues, rising materials costs, and occasional quality problems. However, the latest gain of 249 MW in capacity indicates progress compared to the 8,136 MW recorded at the end of 2022, as reported by Deutsche WindGuard research.
The 249 MW increase comprises 229 MW from new turbine constructions and a 20 MW upgrade at the Veja Mate offshore park. Additionally, the upcoming 257 MW Acardis ost 1 park is expected to become operational by the end of this year.
In 2022, the sector experienced slower growth with only 342 MW added, primarily due to energy market disruptions caused by record prices and supply uncertainties following Russia's decision to curtail gas exports to the West.
In conclusion, while Germany has seen modest growth in offshore wind capacity in the first half of 2023, the industry is hopeful that better revenue guarantees and policy adjustments will help accelerate progress and achieve the ambitious renewable energy targets set for the future.
